Psychologist and author Barbara Becker Holstein has announced a free ebook promotion for her bestselling novel 'Women's Freedom, Unfinished Love Stories' on January 31-32, 2026, alongside the upcoming release of her new film 'I Had an Affair with My Husband' in early 2026. These releases continue her work integrating positive psychology principles into accessible media formats.
The ebook giveaway makes Holstein's exploration of 1960s women's experiences available to wider audiences. The novel follows three college students navigating societal expectations and personal desires, serving as what Holstein describes as "a mirror to the experiences of women throughout history." Her writing examines how historical struggles for fair treatment and understanding continue to influence contemporary self-discovery and emotional growth.
Meanwhile, her forthcoming film addresses relationship dynamics from an unconventional perspective. Based on personal experiences with her psychologist husband, 'I Had an Affair with My Husband' follows a married couple who revitalize their relationship by adopting alternate personas. "Fantasy and romance and play are very important aspects of marriages that last," Holstein explained, noting that psychologists recognize such dynamics can enhance relationships when approached consciously.
The film features actors Justin L. Wilson and Jessica Miano Kruel portraying both the humorous and serious consequences of persona experimentation. Holstein suggests viewers may reflect on their own relationships after watching, potentially considering "how to create new personas" or simply appreciating the narrative's exploration of marital renewal.
These releases extend Holstein's established media approach, which includes six bestselling books, award-winning films, workbooks for youth, and her Enchanted Self positive psychology platform. Her recent work includes 'Conflict and a Bit of Magic,' which helps children build self-esteem through journal identification, and 'Secrets,' a workbook addressing teen depression that achieved bestseller status.
Holstein's broader initiatives include The Selfie Showcase, a project allowing young people to create smartphone videos about pandemic-era anxieties and other concerns. More information about this youth media platform is available at Selfie Filmmakers, where participants can upload content. Her work consistently bridges psychological insight with creative expression, whether through books examining historical womanhood or films exploring contemporary relationship dynamics.
These announcements matter because they represent psychology-accessible media addressing both historical understanding and present-day wellbeing. The ebook promotion increases access to narratives about women's evolving social positions, while the film offers a psychologically-informed perspective on maintaining relationship vitality. Together, they demonstrate how media can translate psychological concepts into engaging formats that prompt reflection on personal and societal development.
